Part 9/13:
In the Middle East, the Syrian regime, under Bashar al-Assad, manipulates aid flows through currency schemes and strategic blockades, channeling resources into its war effort rather than civilian needs. Similarly, in Yemen, the UN estimates that up to 60% of aid intended for vulnerable populations is diverted to Houthi loyalists or resold, undermining relief efforts. Afghanistan’s aid system has also been infiltrated by the Taliban, with nearly half of the aid being taxed or diverted, often with tacit international approval or neglect.